Dynamic splitting behavior of ultra-lightweight cement composite with rubber and polyethylene fiber

The incorporation of fiber and rubber into concrete can enhance its tensile strength and impact resistance. In this study, a new rubberized ultra-lightweight high ductility cement composite (RULHDCC) was developed by mixing waste rubber particles and polyethylene (PE) fiber into an ultra-lightweight cement composite (ULCC). Previous studies have demonstrated that the effect of rubber and PE fiber results in satisfying static and dynamic compression performance. This study carried out a series of Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) splitting tests to investigate the impact of rubber and fiber on the tensile strength and splitting behavior of RULHDCC. The results showed that the splitting behavior of RULHDCC was significantly improved due to the synergistic effect of rubber and fiber, without much loss of compressive strength. The tension-Dynamic Increasing Factor (DIF) models are evaluated, and the limitations of the research are highlighted.